Buying Advice

[eyeamdaman]

Finally! I am in the market to start boat shopping. Only problem is that I can't afford a new boat.

My questions are:
1. What types of things do you look for when buying a used boat to assure that the boat is solid?
2. Is there a way to check the motor condition? Will a dealer do a compression test?
3. Without an hour gauge, is there a way check how much the motor has been used? I don't want a motor that has been used 200 days every year for the last decade!

I guess I just don't ant to get screwed on this deal. I have heard horror stories about the guy that buys a boat (that runs great)but two weeks later the motor blows. I don't want to be that guy!!
I realize that a new boat might be the only way, but the funds are not there.
Any Advice?

Thanks
eyeamdaman

[Eyez]

1. What types of things do you look for when buying a used boat to assure that the boat is solid?

I look for obvious signs of abuse, primarily. Other things to look at are how hatches open and close, how they fit, the condition of the carpet, seats, etc will tell you how hard a boat has been used. Lift up on the motor a little and see if the transom feels spongy, if you can, watch if the motor bounces when it's being trailered. Aluminum boats, inspect the welds and/or rivets. When you test drive, flip the bilge on right away, make sure it's dry, so you can see if it took on water during the course of the test drive. The condition of the trailer tires. When you drive it to the ramp for the test drive, feel the hubs on the trailer and see if they're warm or hot when you get there, a sign of dry or bad bearings. Test everything, open every hatch, flip all the switches, push all the buttons. Look for loose or missing screws in the floor and other areas.

2. Is there a way to check the motor condition? Will a dealer do a compression test?

Yes a dealer will do a compression test if you want them to. This is one of the best ways to check the overall condition of the motor. A motor can have a lot of hours on it and still be better than a fairly new motor that has been abused and not maintained. Also have the mechanic drop the lower unit grease and check for water or metal filings, that would be a sign of a failing lower unit.


I guess the biggest thing that I learned after almost 4 continuous years of used boat shopping -- if you don't feel comfortable with a boat or a deal, walk away from it, there's almost always a better deal out there somewhere.


Eyez

[Bluegill.]

I sure would second that advice of Eyez, especially the last part! There are a lot of boats and a lot of dealers, just take your time and shop. Bluegill.

[LCFISHERMAN]

What kind of boat you looking for
Some more info would help with the opinions you get on this board
Used boats are relavent(sp) to their size
Fill us in and you might get your answers
Good Luck and i hope you get some ? answered
LC

[mike buenting]

>What kind of boat you looking for
>Some more info would help with the opinions you get on this
>board
>Used boats are relavent(sp) to their size
>Fill us in and you might get your answers
>Good Luck and i hope you get some ? answered
>LC

Have you bought a boat yet? Call me if not. I fish pro and guide some
and therefore work a lot of boat shows and demo a lot of boats I'll give you some good advice. and hey I have a 2001 Crestliner for sale that is a great boat and I'm selling cheap.
612-327-4277 mike